U.S. patent application number 14/972581 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-30 for image forming apparatus, power-saving state control method, and program.
This patent application is currently assigned to KONICA MINOLTA, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is KONICA MINOLTA, INC.. Invention is credited to Motoki KANZAWA, Takeo KATSUDA.
Application Number | 20160191739 14/972581 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56165785 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160191739 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KANZAWA; Motoki ; et
al. |
June 30, 2016 |
IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, POWER-SAVING STATE CONTROL METHOD, AND
PROGRAM
Abstract
An image forming apparatus includes: a sensing unit configured
to sense a user and an obstacle blocking the user's passage, and
measure positions of the sensed user and the sensed obstacle; a
power-saving state canceling unit configured to cancel a power
saving state when the sensing unit senses entrance of a user into a
power-saving state canceling area, the power-saving state canceling
area causing cancellation of the power saving state when a user
enters the power-saving state canceling area; a first determining
unit configured to determine whether a power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area not causing cancellation of the power
saving state is necessary in the power-saving state canceling area
when the obstacle is sensed by the sensing unit; and a creating
unit configured to create the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area when the first determining unit determines that the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is necessary.
Inventors: |
KANZAWA; Motoki; (Tokyo,
JP) ; KATSUDA; Takeo; (Tokyo, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
KONICA MINOLTA, INC. |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
KONICA MINOLTA, INC.
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
56165785 |
Appl. No.: |
14/972581 |
Filed: |
December 17, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
358/1.13 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06K 9/00771 20130101;
G06K 9/00362 20130101; H04N 1/00896 20130101; G06K 9/6284
20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04N 1/00 20060101
H04N001/00; G06K 9/00 20060101 G06K009/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 25, 2014 |
JP |
2014-261528 |
Claims
1. An image forming apparatus comprising: a sensing unit configured
to sense a user and an obstacle blocking the user's passage, and
measure positions of the sensed user and the sensed obstacle; a
power-saving state canceling unit configured to cancel a power
saving state when the sensing unit senses entrance of a user into a
power-saving state canceling area, the power-saving state canceling
area causing cancellation of the power saving state when a user
enters the power-saving state canceling area; a first determining
unit configured to determine whether a power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area not causing cancellation of the power
saving state is necessary in the power-saving state canceling area
based on an obstacle's position measured by the sensing unit when
the obstacle is sensed by the sensing unit; and a creating unit
configured to create the power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area when the first determining unit determines that the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is necessary.
2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising: an irradiating unit configured to emit light; and an
irradiation control unit configured to cause the irradiating unit
to irradiate the power-saving state canceling area when the sensing
unit senses entrance of a user into a human sensing area, the human
sensing area causing sensing of a user, wherein the irradiation
control unit causes the irradiating unit to irradiate the
power-saving state canceling area minus the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area.
3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising: an acquiring unit configured to acquire a user's moving
route based on the user's position continuously measured by the
sensing unit when the user is sensed by the sensing unit; a second
determining unit configured to determine whether it is necessary to
change the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area based on
the moving route acquired by the acquiring unit; and a first
changing unit configured to change the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area when the second determining unit
determines that it is necessary to change the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area.
4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the
first changing unit changes the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area to include all the area on a side farther from the
apparatus than a line extended from the user's moving route.
5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, further
comprising a third determining unit configured to determine whether
another user is moving toward the apparatus based on the another
user's moving route acquired by the acquiring unit when the another
user is sensed by the sensing unit, wherein, when the third
determining unit determines that the another user is moving toward
the apparatus, the first changing unit changes the power-saving
state cancellation avoiding area to an area formed only along the
line extended from the user's moving route.
6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising a second changing unit configured to change the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area to a wider area when
the sensing unit senses another user after sensing the user in the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area created by the
creating unit.
7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
sensing unit senses another image forming apparatus, and measures a
position of the sensed another image forming apparatus, the image
forming apparatus further comprises a communication unit configured
to transmit information about a position of the apparatus to the
another image forming apparatus, and receive information about
positions of the human sensing area and the power-saving state
canceling area transmitted from the another image forming
apparatus, the first determining unit determines whether the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is necessary in the
power-saving state canceling area of the apparatus based on the
information about the position of the power-saving state canceling
area of the another image information apparatus, the information
having been received by the communication unit, and the
communication unit transmits information about a position of the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area created by the
creating unit to the another image forming apparatus.
8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, further
comprising: an acquiring unit configured to acquire a user's moving
route based on the user's position continuously measured by the
sensing unit when the user is sensed by the sensing unit; a second
determining unit configured to determine whether it is necessary to
change the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area based on
the moving route acquired by the acquiring unit; and a first
changing unit configured to change the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area when the second determining unit
determines that it is necessary to change the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area, wherein the communication unit
transmits information about a position of the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area changed by the first changing unit to
the another image forming apparatus.
9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, further
comprising a fourth determining unit configured to determine
whether an area allowing a user to pass therethrough exists in an
area, the area being included in the human sensing area of the
apparatus and not being included in the power-saving state
canceling area of the another image forming apparatus, wherein,
when the fourth determining unit determines that there exists an
area allowing a user to pass therethrough, the creating unit
creates the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area in the
power-saving state canceling area of the apparatus.
10. A power-saving state control method for an image forming
apparatus, comprising: the step of canceling a power saving state
when a sensing unit senses entrance of a user into a power-saving
state canceling area, the sensing unit sensing a user and an
obstacle blocking the user's passage, the sensing unit measuring
positions of the sensed user and the sensed obstacle, the
power-saving state canceling area causing cancellation of the power
saving state when a user enters the power-saving state canceling
area; the step of determining whether a power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area not causing cancellation of the power
saving state is necessary in the power-saving state canceling area
based on an obstacle's position measured by the sensing unit when
the obstacle is sensed by the sensing unit; and the step of
creating the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area when the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is determined to be
necessary.
11. A non-transitory recording medium storing a computer readable
program for causing a computer to function as: a power-saving state
canceling unit configured to cancel a power saving state when
entrance of a user into a power-saving state canceling area is
sensed by a sensing unit, the sensing unit sensing a user and an
obstacle blocking the user's passage, the sensing unit measuring
positions of the sensed user and the sensed obstacle, the
power-saving state canceling area causing cancellation of the power
saving state when a user enters the power-saving state canceling
area; a first determining unit configured to determine whether a
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area not causing
cancellation of the power saving state is necessary in the
power-saving state canceling area based on an obstacle's position
measured by the sensing unit when the obstacle is sensed by the
sensing unit; and a creating unit configured to create the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area when the first
determining unit determines that the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area is necessary.
Description
[0001] The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No.
2014-261528 filed on Dec. 25, 2014 including description, claims,
drawings, and abstract are incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus,
a power-saving state control method, and a program.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] When a user uses a conventional image forming apparatus in a
power saving state, the user needs to stand by after performing a
predetermined operation to cancel the power saving state on the
image forming apparatus until the power saving state is actually
canceled.
[0006] To counter this problem, there is a suggested technology by
which a sensor that senses the existence of a user in advance is
provided, and activation is started before the arrival of the user,
so as to shorten the standby time.
[0007] For example, JP 2014-98894 A discloses a technology by which
a sensing unit that has an imaging function is at least provided,
and sensing units that have different power consumptions during
operation and different operating specifications from one another
are used.
[0008] By the technology disclosed in JP 2014-98894 A, however,
when a user not using the image forming apparatus passes nearby,
there might not be any region where the user can avoid the sensing
area of the sensor due to an obstacle such as a wall depending on
the installation location of the image forming apparatus. In this
case, the user cannot help but enter the sensing area of the
sensor. Therefore, the power saving state is canceled, and electric
power is unnecessarily consumed. As a result, energy saving is
hindered.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an image
forming apparatus, a power-saving state control method, and a
program that can realize energy saving by restricting unintended
cancellation of a power saving state, regardless of the
installation location of the image forming apparatus.
[0010] To achieve the abovementioned object, according to an
aspect, an image forming apparatus reflecting one aspect of the
present invention comprises: a sensing unit that senses a user and
an obstacle that blocks the user's passage, and measures the
positions of the sensed user and the sensed obstacle; a
power-saving state canceling unit that cancels a power saving state
when the sensing unit senses entrance of a user into a power-saving
state canceling area, the power-saving state canceling area causing
cancellation of the power saving state when a user enters the
power-saving state canceling area; a first determining unit that
determines whether a power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
not causing cancellation of the power saving state is necessary in
the power-saving state canceling area based on an obstacle's
position measured by the sensing unit when the obstacle is sensed
by the sensing unit; and a creating unit that creates the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area when the first
determining unit determines that the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area is necessary.
[0011] According to an invention of Item. 2, the image forming
apparatus of Item. 1 preferably further includes: an irradiating
unit that emits light; and an irradiation control unit that causes
the irradiating unit to irradiate the power-saving state canceling
area when the sensing unit senses entrance of a user into a human
sensing area, the human sensing area causing sensing of a user,
wherein the irradiation control unit preferably causes the
irradiating unit to irradiate the power-saving state canceling area
minus the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area.
[0012] According to an invention of Item. 3, the image forming
apparatus of Item. 1 or 2 preferably further includes: an acquiring
unit that acquires a user's moving route based on the user's
position continuously measured by the sensing unit when the user is
sensed by the sensing unit; a second determining unit that
determines whether it is necessary to change the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area based on the moving route acquired by
the acquiring unit; and a first changing unit that changes the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area when the second
determining unit determines that it is necessary to change the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area.
[0013] According to an invention of Item. 4, in the image forming
apparatus of Item. 3, the first changing unit preferably changes
the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area so as to include
all the area on the side farther from the apparatus than a line
extended from the user's moving route.
[0014] According to an invention of Item. 5, the image forming
apparatus of Item. 4 preferably further includes a third
determining unit that determines whether another user is moving
toward the apparatus based on the other user's moving route
acquired by the acquiring unit when the other user is sensed by the
sensing unit, wherein, when the third determining unit determines
that the other user is moving toward the apparatus, the first
changing unit preferably changes the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area to an area formed only along the line
extended from the user's moving route.
[0015] According to an invention of Item. 6, the image forming
apparatus of Item. 1 or 2 preferably further includes a second
changing unit that changes the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area to a wider area when the sensing unit senses another
user after sensing the user in the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area created by the creating unit.
[0016] According to an invention of Item. 7, in the image forming
apparatus of Item. 1 or 2, the sensing unit preferably senses
another image forming apparatus, and measures the position of the
sensed other image forming apparatus, a communication unit is
preferably further provided to transmit information about the
position of the apparatus to the other image forming apparatus, and
receive information about the positions of the human sensing area
and the power-saving state canceling area transmitted from the
other image forming apparatus, the first determining unit
preferably determines whether the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area is necessary in the power-saving state canceling area
of the apparatus based on the information about the position of the
power-saving state canceling area of the other image information
apparatus, the information having been received by the
communication unit, and the communication unit preferably transmits
information about the position of the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area created by the creating unit to the
another image forming apparatus.
[0017] According to an invention of Item. 8, the image forming
apparatus of Item. 7 preferably further includes: an acquiring unit
that acquires a user's moving route based on the user's position
continuously measured by the sensing unit when the user is sensed
by the sensing unit; a second determining unit that determines
whether it is necessary to change the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area based on the moving route acquired by
the acquiring unit; and a first changing unit that changes the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area when the second
determining unit determines that it is necessary to change the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area, wherein the
communication unit preferably transmits information about the
position of the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
changed by the first changing unit to the other image forming
apparatus.
[0018] According to an invention of Item. 9, the image forming
apparatus of Item. 7 preferably further includes a fourth
determining unit that determines whether an area allowing a user to
pass therethrough exists in an area that is included in the human
sensing area of the apparatus but is not included in the
power-saving state canceling area of the other image forming
apparatus, wherein, when the fourth determining unit determines
that there exists an area allowing a user to pass therethrough, the
creating unit preferably creates the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area in the power-saving state canceling area
of the apparatus.
[0019] To achieve the abovementioned object, according to an
aspect, a power-saving state control method for an image forming
apparatus reflecting one aspect of the present invention comprises:
the step of canceling a power saving state when a sensing unit
senses entrance of a user into a power-saving state canceling area,
the sensing unit sensing a user and an obstacle that blocks the
user's passage, the sensing unit measuring the positions of the
sensed user and the sensed obstacle, the power-saving state
canceling area causing cancellation of the power saving state when
a user enters the power-saving state canceling area; the step of
determining whether a power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
not causing cancellation of the power saving state is necessary in
the power-saving state canceling area based on an obstacle's
position measured by the sensing unit when the obstacle is sensed
by the sensing unit; and the step of creating the power-saving
state cancellation avoiding area when the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area is determined to be necessary.
[0020] To achieve the abovementioned object, according to an
aspect, a non-transitory recording medium storing a computer
readable program reflecting one aspect of the present invention
causes a computer to function as: a power-saving state canceling
unit that cancels a power saving state when entrance of a user into
a power-saving state canceling area is sensed by a sensing unit,
the sensing unit sensing a user and an obstacle that blocks the
user's passage, the sensing unit measuring the positions of the
sensed user and the sensed obstacle, the power-saving state
canceling area causing cancellation of the power saving state when
a user enters the power-saving state canceling area; a first
determining unit that determines whether a power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area not causing cancellation of the power
saving state is necessary in the power-saving state canceling area
based on an obstacle's position measured by the sensing unit when
the obstacle is sensed by the sensing unit; and a creating unit
that creates the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area when
the first determining unit determines that the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area is necessary.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] The above and other objects, advantages and features of the
present invention will become more fully understood from the
detailed description given hereinbelow and the appended drawings
which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not
intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention,
and wherein:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the structure of
an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the control structure of
the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the structure of a
light irradiation unit;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the process to be performed
when the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment is
powered on;
[0026] FIGS. 5A through 5C are diagrams showing an example where a
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is created along an
obstacle;
[0027] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the process to be performed
when the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment is
actually activated;
[0028] FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams showing an example where a
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is created on a
user's moving route;
[0029] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example where a power-saving
state cancellation avoiding area is created in a wider area than
that in the example shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B;
[0030] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example where the
power-saving state canceling area shown in FIG. 7B is redefined as
another user approaches in the situation illustrated in FIG. 8;
[0031] FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example where the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is widened as another
user approaches in the situation illustrated in FIG. 5C;
[0032] FIGS. 11A through 11C are diagrams showing an example where
a power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is created along
the intermediate position between two image forming
apparatuses;
[0033] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the process to be performed
when an image forming apparatus according to a fourth modification
is powered on;
[0034] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the process to be performed
when the image forming apparatus according to the fourth
modification is actually activated;
[0035] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the process to be performed
when the image forming apparatus according to the fourth
modification is actually activated;
[0036] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example where a power-saving
state cancellation avoiding area is created on a user's moving
route; and
[0037] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example where only one image
forming apparatus irradiates its own power-saving state canceling
area.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0038] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be
described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the
scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated
examples.
[0039] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an image forming apparatus 1
according to this embodiment includes a control unit 10, an image
reading unit 20, an image processing unit 30, an image forming unit
40, an operation display unit 50, a communication unit 60, a human
body sensing unit 70, a light irradiation unit 80, and a power
supply unit 100, which are connected to one another via a bus.
[0040] The control unit 10 includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the
like. The CPU of the control unit 10 reads a system program and
various processing programs stored in the ROM, and loads the
programs into the RAM. In accordance with the loaded programs, the
CPU performs central control on operation of each of the components
of the image forming apparatus 1.
[0041] The image reading unit 20 includes a light source, a CCD
(Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, an A/D converter, and the
like. The image reading unit 20 reads an image of an original by
photoelectrically converting an image formed with reflected light
of the light that has been emitted from the light source to the
original for scanning. The image reading unit 20 performs A/D
conversion on the read image, and outputs the obtained image data
to the image processing unit 30.
[0042] The image processing unit 30 performs shading correction,
color conversion, tone correction, a tone reproduction process
(screen processing or an error diffusion process), and the like on
input image data (color density gradation data) that is input via
the image reading unit 20, the communication unit 60, or the like,
and outputs the resultant image data to the image forming unit
40.
[0043] The image forming unit 40 performs image formation on a
recording medium such as a recording paper sheet based on the image
data that is input from the image processing unit 30. The technique
used by the image forming unit 40 for forming an image may be any
appropriate known technique, such as an electrophotographic
technique, an ink jet technique, or a thermal transfer
technique.
[0044] The operation display unit 50 includes a display unit 51 and
an operation unit 52.
[0045] The display unit 51 is formed with an LCD (Liquid Crystal
Display) or the like, and displays the respective kinds of
operation buttons, the state of the apparatus, the operational
states of the respective functions, and the like on the display
screen in accordance with a display signal that is input from the
control unit 10.
[0046] The operation unit 52 includes various kinds of operation
keys such as a numeric keypad and a start key, to receive a key
operation from a user and output an operating signal to the control
unit 10. The operation unit 52 has a pressure-sensitive (or
resistive) touch panel formed by arranging transparent electrodes
in a grid array so as to cover the upper surface of the LCD of the
display unit 51. The operation unit 52 detects the X-Y coordinates
of the point pressed with a finger, a touch-pen, or the like in the
form of a voltage value, and outputs the detected positional signal
as an operating signal to the control unit 10. The touch panel is
not limited to a pressure-sensitive one, but may be of another
electrostatic type or an optical type.
[0047] The communication unit 60 is formed with a modem, a LAN
adapter, a router, or the like. The control unit 60 controls
communication with an external device such as a PC (Personal
Computer) connected to a communication network such as a LAN (Local
Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network), and receives image data
and the like.
[0048] The human body sensing unit (the sensor unit) 70 is formed
with a depth sensor. The human body sensing unit 70 irradiates an
object with a special pattern formed with infrared rays, and
measures the position (depth) of the object in a predetermined area
(hereinafter referred to as the human sensing area E1) based on
information obtained from an image of the pattern captured by a
camera. Specifically, the human body sensing unit 70 senses a user
existing in the human sensing area E1, and measures the position of
the sensed user. The human body sensing unit 70 also senses an
obstacle such as a wall existing in the human sensing area E1, and
measures the position of the sensed obstacle. The human body
sensing unit 70 may be a known sensor such as Kinect (a registered
trade name), for example.
[0049] The light irradiation unit (the irradiating unit) 80 is a
device of a three-plate type that displays a color image using
three transmissive liquid crystal panels, and irradiates a
predetermined area (hereinafter referred to as the power-saving
state canceling area E2) outside the image forming apparatus 1 with
a color image indicating that the current area is the power-saving
state canceling area E2. As shown in FIG. 3, the light irradiation
unit 80 includes a light source 81, a first dichroic mirror 82, a
first reflecting mirror 83, a first liquid crystal panel 84, a
second dichroic mirror 85, a second liquid crystal panel 86, a
second reflecting mirror 87, a third reflecting mirror 88, a third
liquid crystal panel 89, a cross dichroic prism 90, and a
projecting lens 91.
[0050] The light source 81 is formed with an ultrahigh-pressure
mercury lamp, for example, and emits white light containing red
light, green light, and blue light, which are the three primary
colors of light and are required in forming a color image with
light.
[0051] The first dichroic mirror 82 separates the light emitted
from the light source 81 into red light to be reflected, and the
light in the other colors to be allowed to pass or green light and
blue light.
[0052] The first reflecting mirror 83 reflects the red light
separated by the first dichroic mirror 82 toward the first liquid
crystal panel 84.
[0053] The first liquid crystal panel 84 spatially modulates the
red light reflected by the first reflecting mirror 83 in accordance
with the image signal corresponding to red-color image
information.
[0054] The second dichroic mirror 85 separates the light that has
passed through the first dichroic mirror 82 into green light, and
the light in the other color or blue light.
[0055] The second liquid crystal panel 86 spatially modulates the
green light separated by the second dichroic mirror 85 in
accordance with the image signal corresponding to green-color image
information.
[0056] The second reflecting mirror 87 reflects the blue light that
has passed through the second dichroic mirror 85 toward the third
reflecting mirror 88.
[0057] The third reflecting mirror 88 reflects the blue light
reflected by the second reflecting mirror 87 toward the third
liquid crystal panel 89.
[0058] The third liquid crystal panel 89 spatially modulates the
blue light reflected by the third reflecting mirror 88 in
accordance with the image signal corresponding to blue-color image
information.
[0059] The cross dichroic prism 90 includes three entrance planes
90R, 90G, and 90B, and one exit plane 90T. The cross dichroic prism
90 is designed so that the red light exiting from the first liquid
crystal panel 84 enters the entrance plane 90R, the green light
exiting from the second liquid crystal panel 86 enters the entrance
plane 90G, and the blue light exiting from the third liquid crystal
panel 89 enters the entrance plane 90B. The cross dichroic prism 90
combines the red light, the green light, and the blue light that
have entered the entrance planes 90R, 90G, and 90B, and outputs the
combined light from the exit plane 90T.
[0060] The projecting lens 91 enlarges the combined light exiting
from the exit plane 90T of the cross dichroic prism 90, and
releases the enlarged light to the outside of the image forming
apparatus 1.
[0061] In a case where entrance of a user into the human sensing
area E1 is sensed by the human body sensing unit 70, the control
unit 10 causes the light irradiation unit 80 to irradiate the
power-saving state canceling area E2 with a color image indicating
that the current area is the power-saving state canceling area E2
(see FIG. 5 and others). That is, the control unit 10 functions as
the irradiation control unit according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0062] In a case where entrance of a user into the power-saving
state canceling area E2 is sensed by the human body sensing unit
70, the control unit 10 cancels the power-saving state. That is,
the control unit 10 functions as the power-saving state canceling
unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0063] The power supply unit 100 receives a supply of power from a
commercial power source (not shown). The power supply unit 100
supplies power to the control unit 10, and also supplies power to
the image reading unit 20, the image processing unit 30, the image
forming unit 40, the operation display unit 50, the communication
unit 60, the human body sensing unit 70, and the light irradiation
unit 80 via power supply lines independently of one another.
Accordingly, the control unit 10 supplies power or cuts off the
power supplies to the respective components independently of one
another. By doing so, the control unit 10 can perform so-called
partial power saving control.
[0064] In this embodiment, in a case where the image forming
apparatus 1 is not used for a predetermined period of time, the
image forming apparatus 1 enters a power saving mode in which the
power supplies are cut off, except for the power supplies for
predetermined components. In the power saving mode, the power
supply unit 100 supplies power at least to the human body sensing
unit 70 that senses entrance of a user into the human sensing area
E1, and the light irradiation unit 80 that irradiates the
power-saving state canceling area E2 with a color image when
entrance of a user is sensed by the human body sensing unit 70.
[0065] When not in the power saving mode, the power supply unit 100
cuts off the power supplies to the human body sensing unit 70 and
the light irradiation unit 80. However, when not in the power
saving mode, the power supply unit 100 may also supply power to the
human body sensing unit 70 and the light irradiation unit 80.
[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, the process to be performed
when the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is
powered on is described. This process is started when a user inputs
an instruction to supply power via the operation display unit
50.
[0067] In this embodiment, an example case where a wall W (see FIG.
5A) exists in the power-saving state canceling area E2 of the image
forming apparatus 1 is described.
[0068] First, the control unit 10 controls the human body sensing
unit 70 to determine whether an obstacle exists in the human
sensing area E1 of the image forming apparatus 1 (step S101). Here,
an obstacle is an object that blocks a user's passage, and may be a
wall, for example. In this embodiment, the wall W that blocks a
user's passage exists in the human sensing area E1 as shown in FIG.
5B, and therefore, it is determined that there exists an
obstacle.
[0069] If it is determined that there exists an obstacle (step
S101: YES), the process moves on to the next step S102.
[0070] If it is determined that there are no obstacles (step S101:
NO), on the other hand, the process comes to an end.
[0071] The control unit 10 then controls the human body sensing
unit 70 to measure the position of the obstacle (step S102).
[0072] Based on the position of the obstacle measured in step S102,
the control unit 10 determines whether there is an area through
which a user can pass between the obstacle and the power-saving
state canceling area E2 (step S103). In the example illustrated in
FIGS. 5A through 5C, the wall W that blocks a user's passage exists
in the power-saving state canceling area E2, and therefore, it is
determined that there is not an area through which a user can
pass.
[0073] If it is determined that there is an area through which a
user can pass (step S103: YES), the process comes to an end.
[0074] If it is determined that there is not an area through which
a user can pass (step S103: NO), it is determined that there is the
need to create an area in which the power saving state (power
saving mode) is not canceled (the area will be hereinafter referred
to as the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E31) even
when the user enters the area, and the process moves on to the next
step S104.
[0075] That is, the control unit 10 functions as the first
determining unit according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0076] The control unit 10 then creates a power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E31 along the obstacle (step S104). As
shown in FIG. 5C, the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
E31 is created along the obstacle (wall W), and has such a width as
to allow a user to pass therethrough.
[0077] That is, the control unit 10 functions as the creating unit
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0078] Based on the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
E31 created in step S104, the control unit 10 changes the settings
of the power-saving state canceling area E2 (step S105).
[0079] Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, the process to be performed
when the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is
actually activated is described.
[0080] First, the control unit 10 determines whether the image
forming apparatus 1 is in a power saving state (step S201).
[0081] If the image forming apparatus 1 is determined to be in a
power saving state (step S201: YES), the process moves on to the
next step S202.
[0082] If the image forming apparatus 1 is determined not to be in
a power saving state (step S201: NO), the procedure of step S201 is
repeated until the image forming apparatus 1 is determined to be in
a power saving state.
[0083] The control unit 10 then activates the human body sensing
unit 70 that has its power supply cut off when not in a power
saving state (step S202). At the same time, the control unit 10 may
also activate the light irradiation unit 80 that has its power
supply cut off when not in a power saving state.
[0084] The control unit 10 then determines whether entrance of a
user into the human sensing area E1 has been sensed by the human
body sensing unit 70 activated in step S202 (step S203).
[0085] If the control unit 10 determines that entrance of a user
has been sensed (step S203: YES), the process moves on to the next
step S204.
[0086] If the control unit 10 determines that entrance of any user
has not been sensed (step S203: NO), the procedure of step S203 is
repeated until the control unit 10 determines that entrance of a
user has been sensed.
[0087] The control unit 10 then acquires the moving route of the
user whose entrance has been sensed in step S203 (step S204).
Specifically, the control unit 10 acquires the moving route of the
user based on the user's position continuously measured by the
human body sensing unit 70.
[0088] That is, the control unit 10 functions as the acquiring unit
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0089] Based on the user's moving route acquired in step S204, the
control unit 10 determines whether it is necessary to change the
settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2, or to change
the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E31 (step S205).
Specifically, in a case where the user is not moving toward the
image forming apparatus 1, and the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area E31 created in step S104 in FIG. 4 does not exist on
the user's moving route, the control unit 10 determines that it is
necessary to change the settings of the power-saving state
canceling area E2. In the example illustrated in FIG. 7A, the user
is not moving toward the image forming apparatus 1, and the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E31 does not exist on
the user's moving route. Accordingly, it is determined that the
settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2 need to be
changed.
[0090] If it is determined that the settings of the power-saving
state canceling area E2 need to be changed (step S205: YES), the
process moves on to the next step S206.
[0091] If it is determined that there is no need to change the
settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2 (step S205:
NO), the process moves on to step S208.
[0092] That is, the control unit 10 functions as the second
determining unit according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0093] Based on the user's moving route acquired in step S204, the
control unit 10 creates a power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area E32 (step S206). Specifically, the control unit 10 creates the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32 having such a
width as to allow the user to pass therethrough along the line
extended from the user's moving route (see FIG. 7B).
[0094] Based on the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
E32 created in step S206, the control unit 10 changes the settings
of the power-saving state canceling area E2 (step S207) In this
embodiment, a change from the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area E31 to the power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area E32 is made, as shown in FIG. 7B.
[0095] That is, the control unit 10 functions as the first changing
unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0096] After determining in step S205 that there is no need to
change the settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2, or
after changing the settings of the power-saving state canceling
area E2 in step S207, the control unit 10 controls the light
irradiation unit 80 to irradiate the power-saving state canceling
area E2 with a color image indicating that the current area is the
power-saving state canceling area E2 (step S208). At this point,
the control unit 10 irradiates the power-saving state canceling
area E2 minus the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
E32.
[0097] The control unit 10 then determines whether entrance of the
user into the power-saving state canceling area E2 has been sensed
by the human body sensing unit 70 (step S209).
[0098] If the control unit 10 determines that entrance of the user
has been sensed (step S209: YES), the process moves on to step
S211.
[0099] If the control unit 10 determines that entrance of the user
has not been sensed (step S209: NO), the process moves on to the
next step S210.
[0100] The control unit 10 then determines whether the user whose
entrance into the human sensing area E1 was sensed in step S203 has
moved out of the human sensing area E1 (step S210).
[0101] If the control unit 10 determines that the user has moved
out of the human sensing area E1 (step S210: YES), the process
moves on to step S203, and the control unit 10 again determines
whether entrance of a user into the human sensing area E1 has been
sensed.
[0102] If the control unit 10 determines that the user has not
moved out of the human sensing area E1 (step S210: NO), on the
other hand, the process moves on to step S209, and the control unit
10 again determines whether entrance of the user into the
power-saving state canceling area E2 has been sensed.
[0103] If the control unit 10 determines in step S209 that entrance
of the user into the power-saving state canceling area E2 has been
sensed, the control unit 10 cancels the power saving state of the
image forming apparatus 1 (step S211).
[0104] The control unit 10 then controls the light irradiation unit
80 to suspend the irradiation of the power-saving state canceling
area E2 with the color image (step S212).
[0105] The control unit 10 then determines whether the user whose
entrance into the human sensing area E1 was sensed in step S203 has
moved out of the human sensing area E1 (step S213).
[0106] If the control unit 10 determines that the user has moved
out of the human sensing area E1 (step S213: YES), the process
moves on to step S203, and the control unit 10 again determines
whether entrance of a user into the human sensing area E1 has been
sensed.
[0107] If the control unit 10 determines that the user has not
moved out of the human sensing area E1 (step S213: NO), the
procedure of step S213 is repeated until the control unit 10
determines that the user has moved out of the human sensing area
E1.
[0108] As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according
to this embodiment includes: a sensing unit (the human body sensing
unit 70) that senses a user and an obstacle that blocks the user's
passage, and measures the positions of the sensed user and the
sensed obstacle; a power-saving state canceling unit (the control
unit 10) that cancels a power saving state when the sensing unit
senses entrance of a user into the power-saving state canceling
area E2 that causes cancellation of the power saving state when a
user enters the power-saving state canceling area E2; a first
determining unit (the control unit 10) that determines whether the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E31 that does not
cause cancellation of the power saving state is necessary in the
power-saving state canceling area E2 based on the obstacle's
position measured by the sensing unit when the obstacle is sensed
by the sensing unit; and a creating unit (the control unit 10) that
creates the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E31 when
the first determining unit determines that the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E31 is necessary.
[0109] Accordingly, with the image forming apparatus 1 according to
this embodiment, it is possible to secure an area through which a
user not using the image forming apparatus 1 can pass while
avoiding the power-saving state canceling area E2, regardless of
the installation location of the image forming apparatus 1. Thus,
unintended cancellation of a power saving state can be restricted,
and energy saving can be realized.
[0110] The image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment
further includes: an irradiating unit (the light irradiation unit
80) that emits light; and an irradiation control unit (the control
unit 10) that causes the irradiating unit to irradiate the
power-saving state canceling area E2 when the sensing unit senses
entrance of a user into the human sensing area E1 in which users
are sensed. The irradiation control unit also irradiates the
power-saving state canceling area E2 minus the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area.
[0111] Accordingly, with the image forming apparatus 1 according to
this embodiment, the power-saving state canceling area E2 can be
made visible to users. Thus, unintended cancellation of a power
saving state can be more certainly restricted.
[0112] The image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment
further includes: an acquiring unit (the control unit 10) that
acquires the moving route of a user based on the user's position
continuously measured by the sensing unit when the user is sensed
by the sensing unit; a second determining unit (the control unit
10) that determines whether it is necessary to change the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E31 based on the
moving route acquired by the acquiring unit; and a first changing
unit (the control unit 10) that changes the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E31 when the second determining unit
determines that it is necessary to change the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E31.
[0113] Accordingly, with the image forming apparatus 1 according to
this embodiment, the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
can be automatically changed with movement of a user. Thus, the
shortest route for a user not using the image forming apparatus 1
can be presented.
[0114] Although an embodiment of the present invention has been
described in detail, the present invention is not limited to the
above described embodiment, and changes may be made to the
embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention.
First Modification
[0115] For example, in the example illustrated in FIG. 8, a
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32A differs from the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32 of the above
embodiment in that being wider on the side farther from the image
forming apparatus 1. For ease of explanation, the same components
as those of the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference
numerals as those used in the above embodiment, and detailed
explanation of them will not be provided.
[0116] As specifically shown in FIG. 8, in a first modification,
the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32A created
based on a user's moving route is designed to include all the area
on the side farther from the image forming apparatus 1 than the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32 created on the
line extended from a moving route in the above embodiment.
[0117] As described above, with the image forming apparatus 1
according to the first modification, the first changing unit
changes the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32 so as
to include all the area on the side farther from the apparatus than
the line extended from the user's moving route. Accordingly, the
user can pass through the power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area with ease, and be prevented from stepping into the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area by tripping or being
thrown off balance. Thus, unintended cancellation of a power saving
state can be restricted.
Second Modification
[0118] The example illustrated in FIG. 9 differs from the first
modification in that the power-saving state canceling area E2 of
the above embodiment is redefined when another user approaches in
the situation of the first modification. For ease of explanation,
the same components as those of the above embodiment are denoted by
the same reference numerals as those used in the above embodiment,
and detailed explanation of them will not be provided.
[0119] Specifically, in a second modification, when another user is
sensed by the human body sensing unit 70, the control unit 10 first
determines whether the other user is moving toward the image
forming apparatus 1 based on the moving route of the other
user.
[0120] That is, the control unit 10 functions as the third
determining unit according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0121] If the control unit 10 determines that the other user is
moving toward the image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 10
redefines the power-saving state canceling area E2 by changing the
power-saving state canceling area E2 from the state in which the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32A of the first
modification is created (see FIG. 8) to a state in which the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32 of the above
embodiment is created only along the line extended from the moving
route of the user (see FIG. 7B), as shown in FIG. 9.
[0122] As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according
to the second modification further includes a third determining
unit (the control unit 10) that determines whether another user is
moving toward the apparatus based on the other user's moving route
acquired by the acquiring unit when the other user is sensed by the
sensing unit. If the third determining unit determines that the
other user is moving toward the apparatus, the first changing unit
changes the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E32A to a
state in which the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is
created only along the line extended from the user's moving
route.
[0123] Accordingly, with the image forming apparatus 1 according to
the second modification, the power-saving state canceling area E2
can be changed to an area of an appropriate width as another user
who intends to use the apparatus approaches, even if the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area is designed to have a
great width. Thus, when the power saving state needs to be canceled
for a user who intends to use the apparatus, the power saving state
can be canceled as usual, and appropriate power saving control can
be performed.
Third Modification
[0124] The example illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B differs from
the above embodiment in that the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area E31 is widened when another user approaches in the
situation of the above embodiment. For ease of explanation, the
same components as those of the above embodiment are denoted by the
same reference numerals as those used in the above embodiment, and
detailed explanation of them will not be provided.
[0125] As specifically shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, in a third
modification, if a user is sensed in the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E31 (see FIG. 7A) created according to
the above embodiment, and another user is sensed in the human
sensing area E1 (see FIG. 10A), the control unit 10 changes the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E31 to a wider
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E31A (see FIG.
10B).
[0126] That is, the control unit 10 functions as the second
changing unit according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0127] As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according
to the third modification further includes a second changing unit
(the control unit 10) that changes the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E31 to an area of a greater width when a
user is sensed by the sensing unit in the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E31 created by the creating unit, and
another user is sensed by the sensing unit. Accordingly, two or
more users can pass through the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area at the same time, and the standby time unnecessary
for users who are passing by but do not intend to use the apparatus
can be shortened.
Fourth Modification
[0128] The example illustrated in FIGS. 11A through 11C and FIG. 12
differs from the above embodiment in that a power-saving state
canceling area E2A of another image forming apparatus 1A exists in
the power-saving state canceling area E2 of the image forming
apparatus 1. For ease of explanation, the same components as those
of the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals
as those used in the above embodiment, and detailed explanation of
them will not be provided.
[0129] As specifically shown in FIG. 11A, in a fourth modification,
the power-saving state canceling area E2 of the image forming
apparatus 1 and the power-saving state canceling area E2A of the
other image forming apparatus 1A overlap each other, and block a
user's passage. The structure of the other image forming apparatus
1A is the same as the structure of the image forming apparatus 1,
and therefore, will not be described in detail.
[0130] Referring now to FIGS. 11A through 11C and FIG. 12, the
process to be performed when the image forming apparatus 1
according to the fourth modification is powered on is
described.
[0131] First, the control unit 10 controls the human body sensing
unit 70 to determine whether an obstacle exists in the human
sensing area E1 of the image forming apparatus 1 (step S301). Here,
an obstacle is an object that blocks a user's passage, and may be
another image forming apparatus or a wall, for example. In this
modification, another image forming apparatus 1A that blocks a
user's passage exists in the human sensing area E1 as shown in FIG.
11A, and therefore, it is determined that there exists an
obstacle.
[0132] If it is determined that there exists an obstacle (step
S301: YES), the process moves on to the next step S302.
[0133] If it is determined that there are no obstacles (step S301:
NO), on the other hand, the process comes to an end.
[0134] The control unit 10 then controls the human body sensing
unit 70 to determine whether the other image forming apparatus 1A
exists in the human sensing area E1 of the image forming apparatus
1 (step S302). In this modification, the other image forming
apparatus 1A exists in the human sensing area E1 as shown in FIG.
11A, and therefore, it is determined that there exists the other
image forming apparatus 1A.
[0135] If it is determined that there exists the other image
forming apparatus 1A (step S302: YES), the process moves on to step
S307.
[0136] If it is determined that the other image forming apparatus
1A does not exist (step S302: NO), on the other hand, it is
determined that there exists an obstacle other than the other image
forming apparatus 1A, and the process moves on to the next step
S303.
[0137] The procedures of steps S303 through S306 are the same as
the procedures of steps S102 through S105 in FIG. 4 showing the
process to be performed when the image forming apparatus 1
according to the above embodiment is powered on, and therefore, are
not described herein.
[0138] If the control unit 10 determines in step S302 that the
other image forming apparatus 1A exists in the human sensing area
E1, the control unit 10 controls the human body sensing unit 70 to
measure the position of the other image forming apparatus 1A (step
S307).
[0139] The control unit 10 then transmits the information about the
relative position of the apparatus to the other image forming
apparatus 1A via the communication unit 60 (step S308).
[0140] The control unit 10 then receives the information about the
relative positions of a human sensing area E1A and the power-saving
state canceling area E2A transmitted from the other image forming
apparatus 1A via the communication unit 60 (step S309).
[0141] Based on the information about the relative position of the
power-saving state canceling area E2A of the other image forming
apparatus 1A received in step S309, the control unit 10 determines
whether there is an area through which a user can pass between the
power-saving state canceling area E2 of the image forming apparatus
1 and the power-saving state canceling area E2A of the other image
forming apparatus 1A (step S310). In this modification, the
power-saving state canceling area E2 of the image forming apparatus
1 and the power-saving state canceling area E2A of the other image
forming apparatus 1A overlap each other, and therefore, it is
determined that there is not an area through which a user can
pass.
[0142] If it is determined that there is an area through which a
user can pass (step S310: YES), the process comes to an end.
[0143] If it is determined that there is not an area through which
a user can pass (step S310: NO), it is determined that a
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E33 is necessary, and
the process moves on to the next step S311.
[0144] Based on the information about the relative position of the
power-saving state canceling area E2A of the other image forming
apparatus 1A received in step S309, the control unit 10 calculates
the intermediate position between the image forming apparatus 1 and
the other image forming apparatus 1A (step S311). In this
modification, the intermediate position M between the image forming
apparatus 1 and the other image forming apparatus 1A is calculated,
as shown in FIG. 11B.
[0145] Based on the intermediate position M calculated in step
S311, the control unit 10 creates the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E33 (step S312). As shown in FIGS. 11B
and 11C, the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E33 is
created along the intermediate position M, and has such a width as
to allow a user to pass therethrough.
[0146] Based on the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
E33 created in step S312, the control unit 10 changes the settings
of the power-saving state canceling area E2 (step S313). At this
point, the control unit 10 transmits the information about the
relative position of the power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area E33 to the other image forming apparatus 1A via the
communication unit 60. With this, the settings of the power-saving
state canceling area E2A is also changed in the other image forming
apparatus 1A based on the power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area E33.
[0147] Referring now to FIGS. 13 through 15, the process to be
performed when the image forming apparatus 1 according to the
fourth modification is actually activated is described.
[0148] The procedures of steps S401 through S404 are the same as
the procedures of steps S201 through S204 in FIG. 6 showing the
process to be performed when the image forming apparatus 1
according to the above embodiment is actually activated, and
therefore, are not described herein.
[0149] Based on the user's moving route acquired in step S404, the
control unit 10 determines whether it is necessary to change the
settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2, or to change
the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E33 (step S405).
Specifically, in a case where the user is not moving toward the
image forming apparatus 1, and the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area E31 created in step S305 in FIG. 12 or the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E33 created in step
S312 does not exist on the user's moving route, the control unit 10
determines that it is necessary to change the settings of the
power-saving state canceling area E2. In the example illustrated in
FIG. 15, the user is not moving toward the image forming apparatus
1, and the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E33 does
not exist on the user's moving route. Accordingly, it is determined
that the settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2 need
to be changed.
[0150] If it is determined that the settings of the power-saving
state canceling area E2 need to be changed (step S405: YES), the
process moves on to the next step S406.
[0151] If it is determined that there is no need to change the
settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2 (step S405:
NO), the process moves on to step S410.
[0152] Based on the user's moving route acquired in step S404, the
control unit 10 creates a power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area E34 (step S406). Specifically, the control unit 10 creates the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E34 having such a
width as to allow the user to pass therethrough along the line
extended from the user's moving route (see FIG. 15).
[0153] Based on the user's moving route acquired in step S404, the
control unit 10 determines whether it is necessary to change the
settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2A of the other
image forming apparatus 1A (step S407). Specifically, if the
power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E34 created in step
S406 and the power-saving state canceling area E2A overlap each
other, the control unit 10 determines that the settings of the
power-saving state canceling area E2A need to be changed. In the
example illustrated in FIG. 15, the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area E34 and the power-saving state canceling area E2A
overlap each other, and therefore, it is determined that the
settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2A need to be
changed.
[0154] If it is determined that the settings of the power-saving
state canceling area E2A need to be changed (step S407: YES), the
process moves on to the next step S408.
[0155] If it is determined that there is no need to change the
settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2A (step S407:
NO), the process moves on to step S409.
[0156] The control unit 10 then transmits the information about the
relative position of the power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area E34 to the other image forming apparatus 1A via the
communication unit 60 (step S408).
[0157] After determining in step S407 that there is no need to
change the settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2A,
or after transmitting the information about the relative position
of the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E34 to the
other image forming apparatus 1A in step S408, the control unit 10
changes the settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2
based on the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E34
created in step S406 (step S409). In the case where the information
about the relative position of the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area E34 is transmitted to the other image forming
apparatus 1A in step S408, the settings of the power-saving state
canceling area E2A are also changed in the other image forming
apparatus 1A based on the power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area E34.
[0158] The procedure of step S409 may be carried out prior to the
procedure of step S407.
[0159] After determining in step S405 that there is no need to
change the settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2, or
after changing the settings of the power-saving state canceling
area E2 in step S409, the control unit 10 controls the light
irradiation unit 80 to irradiate the power-saving state canceling
area E2 with a color image indicating that the current area is the
power-saving state canceling area E2 (step S410). In the case where
the settings of the power-saving state canceling area E2A are
changed in step S409, the power-saving state canceling area E2A is
also irradiated with a color image indicating that the current area
is the power-saving state canceling area E2A in the other image
forming apparatus 1A.
[0160] The procedures of steps S411 through S415 are the same as
the procedures of steps S208 through S213 in FIG. 6, and therefore,
are not described herein.
[0161] As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1
according to the fourth modification, the sensing unit senses the
other image forming apparatus 1A, and measures the position of the
sensed other image forming apparatus 1A. The image forming
apparatus 1 according to the fourth modification further includes
the communication unit 60 that transmits the information about the
position of the apparatus to the other image forming apparatus 1A,
and receives the information about the positions of the human
sensing area E1A and the power-saving state canceling area E2A
transmitted from the other image forming apparatus 1A. Based on the
information about the position of the power-saving state canceling
area E2A of the other image forming apparatus 1A received by the
communication unit 60, the first determining unit determines
whether the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E33 is
necessary in the power-saving state canceling area E2 of the
apparatus. The communication unit 60 also transmits the information
created by the creating unit about the position of the power-saving
state cancellation avoiding area E33 to the other image forming
apparatus 1A.
[0162] Accordingly, with the image forming apparatus 1 according to
the fourth modification, it is possible to secure an area through
which a user who does not intend to use the image forming apparatus
1 can pass while avoiding the power-saving state canceling area,
even if the user's passage is blocked because the power-saving
state canceling areas of image forming apparatuses overlap each
other. Thus, unintended cancellation of a power saving state can be
restricted, and energy saving can be realized.
[0163] The image forming apparatus 1 according to the fourth
modification further includes: an acquiring unit that acquires the
moving route of a user based on the user's position continuously
measured by the sensing unit when the user is sensed by the sensing
unit; a second determining unit that determines whether it is
necessary to change the power-saving state cancellation avoiding
area E33 based on the moving route acquired by the acquiring unit;
and a first changing unit that changes the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E33 when the second determining unit
determines that it is necessary to change the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E33. The communication unit 60 also
transmits the information created by the first changing unit about
the position of the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
E34 to the other image forming apparatus 1A.
[0164] Accordingly, with the image forming apparatus 1 according to
the fourth modification, the power-saving state cancellation
avoiding area can be automatically changed with movement of a user,
even if the user's passage is blocked because the power-saving
state canceling areas of image forming apparatuses overlap each
other. Thus, the shortest route for a user who does not intend to
use the image forming apparatus 1 can be presented.
Fifth Modification
[0165] The example illustrated in FIG. 16 differs from the fourth
modification in that, when a predetermined condition is satisfied,
only one image forming apparatus irradiates its own power-saving
state canceling area. For ease of explanation, the same components
as those of the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference
numerals as those used in the above embodiment, and detailed
explanation of them will not be provided.
[0166] As specifically shown in FIG. 16, in a fifth modification,
the control unit 10 first determines whether there exists an area
through which a user can pass within an area that is included the
human sensing area E1A of the apparatus (the other image forming
apparatus 1A in this case) but is not included in the power-saving
state canceling area E2 of any of the other image forming
apparatuses (the image forming apparatus 1 in this case) when the
user enters the human sensing area E1A of the other image forming
apparatus 1A.
[0167] That is, the control unit 10 functions as the fourth
determining unit according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0168] If it is determined that there exists an area through which
the user can pass, the control unit 10 creates a power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E35 in the power-saving state canceling
area E2A of the other image forming apparatus 1A.
[0169] If the created power-saving state cancellation avoiding area
E35 is also located within the human sensing area E1 of the other
image forming apparatus (the image forming apparatus 1), the image
forming apparatus 1 does not irradiate its own power-saving state
canceling area E2 even when the user enters the power-saving state
cancellation avoiding area E35 included in the human sensing area
E1. With this, further energy saving can be realized.
[0170] As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according
to the fifth modification further includes a fourth determining
unit (the control unit 10) that determines whether there exists an
area through which a user can pass within an area that is included
in the human sensing area of the apparatus but is not included in
the power-saving state canceling area of another image forming
apparatus. If the fourth determining unit determines that there
exists an area through which a user can pass, the creating unit
creates the power-saving state cancellation avoiding area E35 in
the power-saving state canceling area of the apparatus.
[0171] Accordingly, with the image forming apparatus 1 according to
the fifth modification, it is possible to secure an area through
which a user who does not intend to use the image forming apparatus
1 can pass while avoiding the power-saving state canceling area,
even if the user's passage is blocked because the power-saving
state canceling areas of image forming apparatuses overlap each
other. Thus, unintended cancellation of a power saving state can be
restricted, and energy saving can be realized.
Other Modifications
[0172] In the above embodiment, the power-saving state canceling
area E2 is irradiated with a color image indicating that the
current area is the power-saving state canceling area E2. However,
the present invention is not limited to that. That is, the
power-saving state canceling area E2 may not be irradiated with a
color image. In this case, the light irradiation unit 80 becomes
unnecessary. Accordingly, the size and the costs of the image
forming apparatus 1 can be reduced.
[0173] Even if entrance of a user into the human sensing area E1 is
sensed in this case, the power-saving state canceling area E2 is
not irradiated with a color image by the light irradiation unit 80.
Therefore, the human sensing area E1 does not need to be prepared,
either.
[0174] Also, in the above described fourth modification, the
information about the relative position of the apparatus is
transmitted to the other image forming apparatus 1A, and the
information about the relative positions of the human sensing area
E1A and the power-saving state canceling area E2A is received from
the other image forming apparatus 1A. However, the present
invention is not limited to that. For example, a GPS sensor or the
like may be provided to acquire information about absolute
positions, and, instead of the information about relative
positions, the information about absolute positions may be
used.
[0175] The respective modes disclosed in this application can be
regarded as methods, programs, and the like. In the case of a
method or a program, the "units" in each apparatus should be
appropriately read as "procedures" or "steps". Also, the orders of
the procedures or the steps are not limited to those specifically
disclosed in this application, but may be changed. Some of the
procedures or the steps may be collectively carried out, or may be
carried out one by one.
[0176] Further, changes may be made to the specific structures and
the specific operations of the respective devices constituting an
image forming apparatus, without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[0177] Although the present invention has been described and
illustrated in detail, it is clearly understood that the same is by
way of illustrated and example only and is not to be taken by way
of limitation, the scope of the present invention being interpreted
by terms of the appended claims.
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